"Newcomers make their first skittering, scratchy assault on the ice on this route, the School Room.

"The walls at the upstream end of the Uncompahgre Gorge, where the school room is located, aren't as steep as in other parts of the park—they stair-step rather than plummet. After setting up your top rope, you can walk down rather than rappel. A wonderful, egalitarian vibe pervades Ouray. I met folks from their late teens to their 70s, all of whom were welcoming. You can't climb ice without a heaping helping of humility. Maybe by reminding us of how vulnerable and warm blooded and furless we are, ice breeds helpfulness and hospitality." —West Coast Editor Steve Casimiro